Ex-EFF Limpopo chairperson Jossey Buthane rejoins ANC

JOHANNESBURG - Long-time Julius Malema ally and former Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Limpopo chairperson, Jossey Buthane, has returned to the African National Congress (ANC).

Speaking to Eyewitness News, Buthane said he would not be patronised or endure personal attacks during times of dispute in the ANC.

Buthane appeared alongside ANC leaders at a lecture in honour of Solomon Mahlangu in Polokwane on Sunday.

While with the EFF, he came under fire from Malema over the performance of the fighters in the 2021 local government elections.

Buthane did not return to the ANC empty-handed. He took with him over 100 people, who he claims will help it secure a major share of the votes in Limpopo.

Without sharing his experience in the EFF or pointing any fingers, Buthane told Eyewitness News what it meant for him to rejoin the ANC. 

"At least there [the ANC], when you have differences, you still feel safe in an organisation, you don’t feel patronised, you don’t feel attacked in your personal space. You can still differ in the ANC and still be a member in good standing, still enjoy rights and benefits in the organisation."

Members of the EFF, on social media, have in turn suggested he’s a careerist, is entitled and failed as a leader, claiming he never grew the organisation while at the helm.